OCD 
 

What Is OCD?

Obsessive compulsive disorder is highlighted by a pattern of unwanted and intrusive thoughts, fears, images, or sensations that lead to feelings of distress (including anxiety, disgust, “not just right” sensations) and repetitive behaviors aimed at canceling out that distress. 

Usually, these unwanted thoughts are called obsessions. Unwanted, repetitive behaviors or mental acts are called compulsions. 

Throughout life, most people will experience unwanted thoughts every so often. If the person doesn’t have OCD, these unwanted thoughts won’t cause much distress because they won’t be interpreted as meaningful. The hallmark of OCD is that obsessions and compulsions lead to a clinically adverse impact on the life of a child. 

Obsessions: What Are They?

Obsessions, as they relate to OCD, are fears that children, teenagers, and other individuals cannot stop thinking about. People living with OCD are usually aware that something is “off,” and they often understand that the thoughts they are having are not normal.  

The truth is that everyone has unwanted thoughts from time to time. The difference between occasional unwanted thoughts and OCD is that, in OCD, children cannot stop thinking about these thoughts and may be paralyzed by them. Often, these obsessions are so bad that kids cannot think about anything else. 

Compulsions: What Are They?

For a child to have OCD, they need to have both obsessions and compulsions. 
Compulsions are behaviors or mental acts that are typically repetitive and rigid in nature. These compulsions often take the form of rituals and are designed to counteract stress or prevent fearful outcomes. Kids with OCD have to do these behaviors over and over again in a certain order. If they do not, the obsessions take over, and they are worried that there will be a negative outcome. These behaviors might involve safety, cleanliness, orderliness, or symmetry. They have to be done “just right” or children are compelled to start over. 

In a sense, these behaviors are rituals that provide children with a source of power. They feel like if they do these repetitive behaviors in a certain way, they can control what happens next. 

It’s important to note that compulsions often arise out of adaptive behaviors. For example, it is good for children to double-check their homework to make sure it is done properly. On the other hand, if children end up checking their homework a dozen times to the detriment of other activities, this starts to have a clinically adverse impact on not only their life but the lives of family members as well. 

The same can be said of checking to make sure that lights are turned off and doors are locked. It is good to make sure that the house is safe before leaving. However, if this prevents the family from leaving the house, this becomes a major issue. 

What Causes OCD in a Child?

Similar to other mental health disorders, there is never a single reason why a child develops OCD. 

Family History, Genetics, and Environment

OCD is heritable. This simply means that if there’s someone in your family who has it, there’s a higher likelihood that a child might have it. The familial pattern of OCD suggests a genetic component, though there are no specific genes that have been identified to be related to OCD at this point. 

When discussing nature vs. nurture, it is important to note the environment plays a role as well. Obsessions and compulsions can be learned over time. If children watch family members and others go through OCD, they may latch onto these behavioral patterns as well. As a result, environmental exposures can play a role in the development of OCD. 

Treatment:

Therapy 

Cognitive behavior therapy, usually shortened to CBT, is an effective treatment method for people with OCD. This therapy, and others similar to it, help patients connect behaviors and thoughts. 

Medications

Role of physicion 
One of the most important components of CBT is called exposure and response prevention therapy. The goal of this type of therapy is to expose children to a feared object or obsession gradually. 

What Should I Do If My Child Might Have OCD? 

Parents, caretakers, and family members need to remain vigilant and understand that there is nothing wrong with asking for help for their child. Also, kids and teens need to know that it’s perfectly okay—and normal—to reach out for help if they are feeling troubled. 

If you think you know someone who may be struggling with OCD, the first step is to not panic. While the disorder may feel crippling, there are many ways to get help that is tailored to what’s needed for each child. Seeking help—and treatment—can provide a child and their family with the tools to feel empowered and in control of their mental health.